The Kanta and Supra lines were originally designed for two-channel listening, and then Focal added a center channel and a subwoofer. They're not as ergonomically designed for home theater, but you can certainly use them there. The buyer who goes for the Kanta or Sopra doesn't care so much about ergonomics, however; they just want the best of the best. The Kanta lineup superbly combines depth, impact, and articulation of the bass register. The definition and neutrality of the midrange are incredible. The tweeter reproduces the tiniest details with clinical precision. The result? A precise, detailed sound, brimming with warmth and musicality. With the Kanta N ° 1 you'll get lots of detail but a slightly sacrificed midrange because the driver is handling both the midrange and bass. You may want to add a subwoofer. Note: The Kanta has a warmer sound than the Sopra.
Audio Archetypes: The Ideal Focal Bookshelf Speaker for Your HiFi System
Exploring Focal's Audiophile-Grade Bookshelf Speakers
Sometimes you want big and great sound but don't have the space for large, floor loudspeakers. Bookshelf speakers have become increasingly popular for high-fidelity sound systems, thanks to their versatility and excellent sound quality. Despite their compact size, these speakers pack a punch, delivering clear and detailed audio that rivals larger floor-standing models. What makes bookshelf speakers so appealing is their flexibility in placement—they can sit on bookshelves, desks, or be mounted on walls, making them perfect for smaller rooms or spaces. Whether you're listening to music, watching movies, or playing games, bookshelf speakers offer a convenient and effective way to enjoy immersive sound without taking up too much space. With their affordability, portability, and impressive performance, it's no wonder bookshelf speakers are a top choice for those seeking a high-fidelity audio experience.
Focal makes some of the best audiophile-grade speakers on the market, hands down. So it's no surprise that their bookshelf speakers are an incredibly popular choice among audiophiles and non-audiophiles alike. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, innovative driver technologies, and stunning aesthetic designs, Focal's bookshelf speakers have earned a reputation for delivering exceptional sound quality in a compact and visually appealing package. From the affordable but impressive Aria Evo X and Vestia series to the no-holds-barred sonic excellence of the flagship Sopra line, Focal consistently pushes the boundaries of what's possible in the world of high-end audio. Whether you're a seasoned listener seeking the ultimate in musical refinement or a newcomer to the audiophile realm, Focal's bookshelf speakers sound impressive and offer an unparalleled combination of performance, craftsmanship, and value that is simply unmatched in the industry. Let's take a deeper look.
PROS
- Flexibility for different setups
- Space-saving and more power-efficient
CONS
- Consider adding a subwoofer for bass-heads
A bookshelf speaker is a compact and versatile type of speaker designed to fit on a bookshelf, desk, or other elevated surfaces. Despite its small size, it delivers impressive sound quality, making it ideal for smaller rooms or spaces where larger speakers may not be suitable. Bookshelf speakers typically consist of a woofer for low and mid-range frequencies and a tweeter for high frequencies, providing a balanced and clear audio output. They are popular for use in home audio setups, studios, offices, and bedrooms, offering a convenient and space-efficient way to enjoy high-fidelity sound without the bulk of larger speaker systems.
Focal Bookshelf Speaker Features:
- Space Constraints: Bookshelf speakers are ideal for smaller rooms or spaces where floor space is limited. They can be placed on bookshelves, desks, or wall-mounted, making them versatile and suitable for apartments, bedrooms, or offices where larger floor-standing speakers might be impractical.
- Aesthetics: Bookshelf speakers are often more visually discreet than floor-standing speakers, blending into the room decor without dominating the space. Their compact size allows them to seamlessly integrate into a room without drawing too much attention.
- Budget Considerations: Bookshelf speakers tend to be more budget-friendly compared to larger floor-standing models. This makes them an attractive option for those looking for high-quality sound without breaking the bank. With a variety of price ranges, there's something for everyone.
- Sound Quality: Despite their smaller size, modern bookshelf speakers can deliver impressive sound quality. Advances in speaker technology allow bookshelf speakers to produce clear, detailed, and balanced sound across a wide frequency range. They are capable of providing an immersive listening experience, especially when paired with a quality amplifier.
- Flexibility in Placement: Bookshelf speakers offer flexibility in placement, allowing users to experiment with positioning for optimal sound quality. They can be placed on stands, shelves, or mounted at ear level, giving users more control over the sound staging and imaging.
- Matching with Subwoofers: Bookshelf speakers can be paired with a subwoofer to enhance the low-frequency response, providing a full-range sound experience similar to larger floor-standing speakers. This setup allows users to enjoy deep bass without the need for large speaker cabinets.
- Portability: If you move frequently or want the option to easily relocate your speakers, bookshelf speakers are easier to transport and set up compared to larger floor-standing models. This makes them a convenient choice for those who value portability and flexibility.
Bookshelf speakers are a remarkably versatile audio solution, finding a place in a wide variety of settings and applications. Beyond their traditional use as computer speakers, bookshelf speakers can be easily mounted on dedicated stands or wall-mounted to serve as the primary sound system in a living room, seamlessly complementing a turntable or other phono/audio equipment. The compact and flexible nature of bookshelf speakers makes them a popular choice among audiophiles seeking the best bookshelf speakers to enjoy music throughout their homes. Furthermore, their accessibility and ease of placement make them an attractive option for those with limited space, allowing them to enjoy high-quality sound without the need for bulky tower speakers. Whether you're looking to upgrade your computer's audio, build a premium home theater setup, or simply fill a room with immersive sound, the versatility of bookshelf speakers makes them an ideal choice for a wide range of audio needs.
While respected brands like JBL, Klipsch, Bowers & Wilkins, SVS, Polk Audio, and Sony all produce impressive bookshelf speakers, soundbars, and more, Focal's products consistently outshine the competition in terms of both features and sound quality. Focal's use of proprietary driver technologies, such as their renowned Beryllium tweeters and "W" composite woofers, allows their speakers to deliver an exceptionally detailed, dynamic, and emotionally engaging listening experience that is simply unmatched by their rivals. The meticulous construction and cabinet design of Focal's compact bookshelf speakers also contributes to their sonic superiority, with features like precision-engineered internal bracing and high-density, non-resonant materials helping to minimize unwanted colorations and distortions. Whether you're seeking the warm, musical presentation of the Aria Evo X series, the stunning clarity and depth of the Kanta line, or the absolute pinnacle of bookshelf performance in the Sopra N ° 1, Focal's unwavering commitment to home audio excellence ensures that their speakers and audio systems, stereo speakers, surround sound systems, and 2-way bookshelf speakers will captivate and immerse you in a way that other brands simply cannot replicate.
About Focal Speakers
Focal stands as a revered and renowned manufacturer in the world of high-quality audiophile-grade speakers. Founded in 1979 in Saint-Étienne, France, Focal has become synonymous with excellence in sound reproduction, catering to discerning audiophiles, musicians, and professionals alike. With a relentless pursuit of innovation and uncompromising craftsmanship, The company has solidified its position as a leader in the industry, delivering exceptional audio products that redefine the boundaries of sonic performance.
Focal's speaker lineup spans a wide range of products, from bookshelf speakers to floor-standing towers, from studio monitors to high-end reference systems. Each series, whether it be the Sopra, Vestia, Shape, Kanta, or Aria Evo X, is a testament to Focal's dedication to innovation and sonic excellence. The company's use of advanced materials such as Beryllium for tweeters, Flax for cones, and their proprietary technologies like the Focal W sandwich cone, Infinite Horn Loading, and Tuned Mass Damping, further exemplify their commitment to pushing the boundaries of speaker design.
Focal Aria Evo X N ° 1 Bookshelf Speaker
- Designed with Flax fiber cone.
- Equipped with TMD Surround Technology.
- Aluminium/Magnesium ‘M’-shaped inverted dome TAM tweeter.
- Speaker drivers are developed and manufactured in France.
- Leather effect front panel.
The Aria Evo X N°1 bookshelf loudspeaker preserves the essence of the Aria 900 range, with its sophisticated sound quality and its perceived value elevated by high-quality materials. The qualities of its Flax cone are center-stage in this 2-way loudspeaker: neutrality, presence, and elegance. It is recommended for rooms of at least 161 ft² (15m2), with a listening distance of 7 to 10 feet (2 to 3 meters). It's the perfect choice for those wanting a touch more suave than the entry-level Vestia line - better dynamics, more engaging listening experiences, and more detail-oriented than the Kanta speaker lineup. It's a wonderfully nuanced upgrade from the Vestia line. The Aria X line features a Flax cone, a French flax fiber sandwich between two sheets of glass fiber. It is both lightweight for good dynamics and rigid to support the bass and dampening to deliver a neutral and natural sound.
- Type: Bass-reflex 2-way bookshelf loudspeaker
- Speaker drivers: 6.5" (16.5cm) Flax bass/midrange with TMD® surround Aluminium/Magnesium ‘M’-shaped inverted dome TAM tweeter
- Frequency response (+/-3dB): 55Hz – 30kHz
- Response at -6dB: Response at -6dB
- Sensitivity: 89.5dB
- Nominal impedance: 8Ω
- Minimal impedance: 4Ω
- Recommended amp power: 4.6Ω
- Connection: 25 – 120W
- Crossover frequency: 2,800Hz
- Dimensions (HxLxD): 153/8x87/8x11" (39x22.5x28cm)
- Weight: 18.74lb (8.5kg)
Focal Kanta N ° 1 Bookshelf Speaker
- High-quality drivers, including a 1-inch aluminum/magnesium inverted dome tweeter and a 6.5-inch Flax cone midrange/woofer
- Impressive sound quality with a wide frequency response, detailed midrange, and powerful bass performance
- Patented Beryllium tweeter technology for exceptional high-frequency reproduction
- Rear-firing bass port for extended low-end response
- Efficient design that can be driven by a wide range of amplifiers
- Excellent imaging and soundstage creation for an immersive listening experience
More about the Kanta N ° 1: The Focal Kanta N ° 1 bookshelf speaker is a true masterpiece of audio engineering, designed to deliver an exceptional listening experience for audiophiles who crave warmth and musicality in their music. At the heart of this speaker is Focal's renowned Beryllium tweeter, which provides breathtaking clarity and detail in the high frequencies, while the Flax cone woofer adds a lush, natural midrange and deep, well-controlled bass response.
What sets the Kanta N ° 1 apart is its ability to strike a perfect balance between technical excellence and musical emotion. The cabinet's carefully tuned internal bracing and damping materials ensure low resonance and distortion, allowing the drivers to shine without any unwanted colorations. Additionally, the speaker's elegant, sculptural design not only looks stunning in any room but also contributes to its exceptional acoustic performance. Whether you're listening to your favorite vinyl recordings or high-resolution digital files, the Kanta N ° 1 will transport you to the heart of the musical performance, enveloping you in a rich, immersive soundscape that will captivate your senses and leave you craving more.
- Type: 3 way bass-reflex floor standing loudspeaker
- Drivers: One 6 1/2" (16.5cm) Flax bass-midrange with TMD suspension and NIC motor, One 1/16" (27mm) ‘IAL3’ pure Beryllium inverted dome tweeter
- Sensitivity: (2,83V/1m) 88dB
- Frequency Response (+/-3dB): 46Hz - 40kHz
- Low Frequency Point (- 6dB): 42Hz
- Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms
- Minimum Impedance: 3.9 Ohms
- Recommended Amplifier Power: 25 - 150W
- Crossover Frequency: 2,400Hz
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 1639/64 x 97/32 x 1525/64" (422 x 234 x 391mm)
- Net weight (with front grille): 28.1lbs (13kg)
- Packaging dimensions (HxWxD): 241/64 x 143/8 x 205/64" (610 x 365 x 510mm)
- Total weight (including packaging): 33.1lbs (15kg)
Focal Sopra N ° 1 Bookshelf Speaker
- High-end driver complement, including a 1-inch Beryllium inverted dome tweeter and a 6.5-inch Flax cone midrange/woofer
- Exceptional sound quality with a detailed, dynamic, and powerful performance
- Patented Beryllium tweeter technology for exceptional high-frequency reproduction
- Front-firing bass port for precise and controlled low-frequency response
- Highly efficient design that can be driven by a wide variety of amplifiers
- Excellent imaging and soundstage creation for an immersive and captivating listening experience
- Handcrafted in France with meticulous attention to detail and quality
For the money, the Sopra is without a doubt the best price/performance product. The Sopra line can be thought of as a lower-priced version of the Utopia lineup of loudspeakers. Unlike the larger-than-life Utopia, however, Sopra aims for compactness to ensure easy integration into reasonably sized rooms. Sopras deliver a sound that is "fleshy" with a full and articulated bass, overall coherence, and harmonic richness. The Sopra line perfectly combines dynamics, space optimization, and harmonic richness. The woofer offers solid, rich and perfectly defined bass for music lovers looking for optimum performance. Despite its size, it will reveal its full potential in larger rooms. Comparing the Sopra N ° 1 with the rest of the models in the line you'll get plenty of detail and a slightly sacrificed midrange because the driver is handling both the midrange and bass. The Sopra N ° 1 is the best of the best here for Focal bookshelves.
- Type: 2-way bass-reflex bookshelf loudspeaker
- Speaker drivers: 6.5" (16.5cm) "W" bass midrange with "TMD" suspension, "NIC" motor 1-1/16" (27mm) "IHL" Beryllium inverted dome tweeter
- Frequency response (+/- 3dB): 45Hz - 40kHz
- Low-frequency point - 6dB: 41Hz
- Sensitivity (2.83V/1m): 89dB
- Nominal impedance: 8 Ohms
- Minimum impedance: 3.9 Ohms
- Crossover frequency: 2 200Hz
- Recommended amplifier power: 25 - 150W
- Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 15"
- Weight: 42lbs (19kg)
Focal Shape Speaker Line
- Professional-grade studio monitor design, optimized for accurate sound reproduction
- Compact and space-saving enclosure, suitable for near-field monitoring in small to medium-sized rooms
- High-quality drivers, including a 1-inch aluminum/magnesium inverted dome tweeter and a 5-inch or 6.5-inch (depending on model) Polyglass cone woofer
- Precise and detailed sound quality, with a focused and accurate midrange and an extended, controlled bass response
- Neutral and transparent sound signature, ideal for critical music production and mixing tasks
- Optimized crossover design for seamless driver integration and phase coherence
- Front-firing bass port for extended low-frequency performance
- Variety of models (Shape 40, Shape 50, Shape 65) to suit different room sizes and application needs
- Versatile connectivity options, including balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
- Optional wall-mounting or desktop stands for flexible placement
- Exceptional value proposition for professional-grade studio monitors
- Frequency response (+/-3dB): 60Hz - 35kHz
- Maximum SPL (musical signal): 102dB SPL (peak @ 1m)
- Inputs/Impedance: XLR: balanced 10kOhms; RCA: unbalanced 10kOhms with sensitivity compensation
- Midrange and low-frequency amplifier: 25W, class AB
- High-frequency amplifier: 25W, class AB
- Standby on: After approximately 30 minutes with no signal
- Standby off: Signal detection > 3 mV
- Voltages: 200-240V (T500mAL / 250V fuse) or 100-120V (T1.6AL / 250V fuse)
- Connection: IEC plug and detachable power cord
- High pass filter: Adjustable Full range / 80Hz
- Bass (0 - 250Hz): Adjustable, +/-6dB
- Midrange/bass (160Hz, Q=1): Adjustable, +/-3dB
- High (4.5 - 35kKz): Adjustable, +/-3dB
- Standby consumption: < 0.5W
- Woofer: 4" (10cm), Flax Cone
- Tweeter: 1" (25mm) 'M' profile Aluminum-Magnesium
- Cabinet Construction: 0.5" (12mm) MDF
- Dimensions with four rubber feed (HxWxD): 10.1 x 6.3 x 7.9", (257 x 161 x 200mm)
- Weight: 16.1lb (5kg)
- Frequency response (±3dB): 50Hz - 35kHz
- Maximum SPL (musical signal): 106dB SPL (peak @ 1m)
- Inputs/Impedance: XLR: balanced 10kOhms; RCA: unbalanced 10kOhms with sensitivity compensation
- Midrange and low-frequency amplifier: 60W, class AB
- High-frequency amplifier: 25W, class AB
- Standby on: After approximately 30 minutes with no signal
- Standby off: Signal detection > 3 mV
- Voltages: 200-240V (T500mAL / 250V fuse) or 100-120V (T1.6AL / 250V fuse)
- Connection: IEC plug and detachable power cord
- High pass filter: Adjustable Full range 45/60/90Hz
- Bass (0 - 250Hz): Adjustable, +/-6dB
- Midrange/bass (160Hz, Q=1): Adjustable, +/-3dB
- High (4.5 - 35kKz): Adjustable, +/-3dB
- Standby consumption: < 0.5W
- Woofer: 5" (13cm), Flax Cone
- Tweeter: 1" (25mm) 'M' profile Aluminum-Magnesium
- Cabinet Construction: 0.6" (15mm) MDF
- Dimensions with four rubber feed (HxWxD): 12.3 x 7.5 x 9.5", (312 x 191 x 242mm)
- Weight: 20.7lb (6.5kg)
- Frequency response (+/-3dB); 40Hz - 35kHz
- Maximum SPL (musical signal): 109dB SPL (peak @ 1m)
- Inputs/Impedance: XLR: balanced 10kOhms; RCA: unbalanced 10kOhms with sensitivity compensation
- Midrange and low-frequency amplifier: 80W, class AB
- High-frequency amplifier: 25W, class AB
- Standby on: After approximately 30 minutes with no signal
- Standby off: Signal detection > 3 mV
- Voltages: 220-240V (T1AL / 250V fuse) or 100-120V (T1.6AL / 250V fuse)
- Connection: IEC plug and detachable power cord
- High pass filter: Adjustable Full range 45/60/90Hz
- Bass (0 - 250Hz): Adjustable, +/-6dB
- Midrange/bass (160Hz, Q=1): Adjustable, +/-3dB
- High (4.5 - 35kKz): Adjustable, +/-3dB
- Standby consumption: < 0.5W
- Woofer: 6.5" (16.5cm), Flax Cone
- Tweeter: 1" (25mm) 'M' profile Aluminum-Magnesium
- Construction: 0.6" (15mm) MDF
- Dimensions with four rubber feed (HxWxD): 14 x 8.6 x 11.2", (355 x 218 x 285mm)
- Weight: 28.2lb (8.5kg)
Dragon Cables
Why Dragon Cables?
You’ve heard the saying that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, right? Well, the same applies to your brand new audiophile-grade headphone or other audio components. The weakest link, in this case, is your stock audio cable or the cheap interconnects the manufacturer threw in the box just to get you up and running. Why is the audio cable always an afterthought, when it’s just as important as the rest of your system? At Moon Audio, we use the purest and best raw materials in our cables to unveil your music. We believe that materials matter and your audio cables should have the same care and craftsmanship that manufacturers put into their audio components and headphones. Audio cables are ultimately the connection to your music. The fact remains that cabling is often considered the last priority to that of the main product and a means to cut down the overall production costs. It’s as simple as that. Dragon Cables elevate every note - as if you were hearing your favorite music for the very time.
Verdict
Focal's bookshelf speakers are a true masterpiece of engineering, offering an uncompromising combination of compact size and exceptional audio quality that caters to the discerning needs of audiophiles. The Kanta N°1, in particular, is a testament to Focal's unwavering pursuit of sonic perfection. Featuring their proprietary Flax sandwich cone technology, it delivers a remarkably natural and balanced sound, ensuring that every musical nuance, from the subtlest overtones to the deepest basslines, is faithfully reproduced with stunning clarity and precision. The Infinite Acoustic Loading (IAL) technology further enhances its sonic capabilities, creating an expansive and immersive soundstage that defies the speaker's compact dimensions.
Similarly, the Sopra N°1 is a masterclass in speaker design, boasting an impressive frequency response range that spans from the deepest lows to the highest highs. Its ultra-rigid cabinet construction, meticulously crafted from multiple layers of wood and composite materials, virtually eliminates unwanted resonances and vibrations, ensuring that every note is rendered with exceptional clarity and detail.
For those seeking a more affordable yet still premium option, the Vestia N°1 and Aria Evo X N°1 offer a compelling combination of performance and value. The Vestia N°1, equipped with Focal's signature inverted dome tweeter and an optimized bass-reflex system, delivers a rich and detailed soundstage that immerses you in the music. The Aria Evo X N°1, on the other hand, seamlessly integrates Focal's expertise in speaker design with modern aesthetics, offering a visually stunning and sonically impressive solution for any living space.
The Focal Shape Monitor Speaker lineup represents the pinnacle of Focal's commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality in a compact form factor. Whether you choose the Shape Twin, Shape Compact, or Shape Surround, you can expect a level of clarity, precision, and imaging that will transport you to the heart of your favorite recordings. These meticulously crafted speakers leverage Focal's cutting-edge technologies and time-honored craftsmanship to create an immersive and captivating sonic experience that belies their compact size. With their unique blend of advanced engineering, meticulous craftsmanship, and an unwavering dedication to sonic excellence, Focal's bookshelf speakers are a true delight for audiophiles seeking an immersive yet space-saving audio experience. Whether you're a music lover seeking to elevate your listening experience or a discerning enthusiast in pursuit of sonic perfection, Focal's bookshelf speakers offer a compelling solution that combines uncompromising performance with the convenience of a compact form factor.
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